Belle: You've never dated?
That sounded really bad.
Maverick: I usually meet someone at a bar, and whatever happens, happens.I've never intentionally pursued a woman like this.
Belle: So you're saying I'm special.
I sucked in a breath, trying to ignore my pounding heart.
Maverick: Yes.
I wanted to spend time with her where there was not as much pressure.Maybe at her house or mine.Since I couldn't invite myself to hers, I had to ask her over.I owned a house, so it wasn't like it was a complete bachelor pad.But maybe I wasn't the best judge.
Maverick: You want to come over here after work, and I can cook for you?
Belle: I forgot that you cook.
Maverick: You have to when you live alone.And Mom made sure all of us learned.
Belle: Dinner sounds lovely.
I pumped my fist in the air.
Maverick: How about tomorrow night?
Belle: Okay.
Maverick: I'll text you the address.
Belle: What can I bring?
Maverick: Just yourself.
I only wanted her.At home, there wouldn't be any pressure to be a certain way.I could relax and be myself.The only decision was what to cook.Something basic.Nothing fancy.But that was the point of this.We were getting to know each other.I shouldn't pretend to be someone I wasn't.
She already knew I was gruff with sharp edges.If she wanted someone different, she wouldn't have kissed me back.
Belle: I'm looking forward to it.
Maverick: Me too
I was a complete sap for this woman.It was probably why I'd resisted her for so long.
Maverick: I don't want to screw this up.
Belle: Just be yourself
Maverick: That's the problem.You're bound to find something you don't like.
Belle: I liked everything you did this evening.
That was a start.But it wasn't everything.We were obviously compatible physically.It was everything else I wasn't so sure about.
Belle: There are no rules.Just be yourself.
That I could do.I just hoped she liked what she saw.Otherwise, I was setting myself up for heartbreak.
Since when did I worry about heartbreak?I was so out of my depth.
